South Iwo Jima
An academic exploration of a remote, uninhabited island in the Volcano Islands group, detailing its unique geography, ecological significance, and cultural references.
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Island Overview
Location & Identity
South Iwo Jima, officially known as Minami-Iลtล since 2007, is the southernmost island within the Volcano Islands group, itself part of the Nanpล Archipelago in the North Pacific Ocean. It is situated approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of Iwo Jima. The nearest landmass to its south is Farallon de Pajaros, located 541 kilometers (336 miles) away in the Northern Mariana Islands.
Geographical Characteristics
This uninhabited island spans 3.4 square kilometers (1.3 square miles) with a coastline measuring 7.5 kilometers (4.7 miles). Its topography is dominated by steep sea cliffs rising to 200 meters (660 feet). The island's peak reaches an elevation of 916 meters (3,005 feet), making it the highest point in the Ogasawara Subprefecture. Notably, South Iwo Jima lacks any rivers, lakes, marshes, or freshwater systems.
Administrative Context
Following its occupation by the United States Armed Forces after World War II, South Iwo Jima was returned to Japanese control in 1968. It is currently administered as part of the Ogasawara Subprefecture, falling under the jurisdiction of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
Geological & Volcanic Nature
Geological Formation
South Iwo Jima is part of a volcanically active front that has been active for approximately 2.588 million years, originating during the Quaternary period. Analysis of rock samples indicates the island is likely no more than a few hundred thousand years old, as they show no signs of geomagnetic reversal, a process that occurs over longer geological timescales.
Volcanic Landscape
The island is characterized by a relatively stable volcanic cone with an average slope angle of 45 degrees, gentler on the northwest side at 30 degrees. Its formation is a direct result of ongoing volcanic activity in the region. The absence of significant erosion suggests a relatively young geological age.
Early Exploration
While Micronesian navigators may have passed the island historically, the first documented European discovery is attributed to the Spanish explorer Bernardo de la Torre in late September or early October 1543. He encountered the island aboard the carrack San Juan de Letrรกn during an unsuccessful voyage attempting to find a northern route from the Philippines to Mexico.
Ecological Significance
Nature Conservation Area
Due to its historical lack of development, steep terrain, and severe weather conditions, South Iwo Jima has remained a pristine environment. The Japanese government has designated the entire island as a Nature Conservation Area for its forest ecosystem. Access is strictly controlled, permitting only authorized scientists and mountain experts to land.
Scientific Research
Academic research on the island has been infrequent, with major surveys conducted only in 1936, 1982, 2007, and 2017. Most exploration has focused on the more accessible southwestern coast. In 2017, the first drone survey was conducted in previously unexplored regions, expanding our understanding of the island's unique biodiversity.
Avian Habitat
South Iwo Jima is recognized as part of the Volcano Islands (Kazan-retto) Important Bird Area (IBA). This designation, made by BirdLife International, highlights the island's critical role as a habitat for various bird species, underscoring its ecological importance.
Historical Context
Post-War Administration
Following the conclusion of World War II, South Iwo Jima, along with the surrounding islands, was occupied by the United States Armed Forces. This period of administration lasted until 1968, when sovereignty was formally restored to Japan. The island is now managed under the Ogasawara Subprefecture.
Administrative Integration
As part of its integration into the Japanese administrative structure, South Iwo Jima is governed by the Ogasawara Village within the Ogasawara Subprefecture of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. This administrative framework ensures its management and conservation efforts.
Cultural References
Fictional Depiction
South Iwo Jima serves as the setting for Mahoutokoro, the Japanese school of witchcraft and wizardry within J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter fictional universe. In this context, the island is depicted as being surrounded by stormy seas, inhabited solely by magical students, and featuring a castle constructed of pure white jade perched atop an extinct volcano.
Media Appearance
The island was also featured in an episode of the classic science fiction television series The Time Tunnel, titled "Kill Two by Two." Although the episode depicted South Iwo Jima as a lush, tropical island with abundant freshwater resources, this portrayal diverges significantly from its actual arid and rugged environment.
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References
References
- Brand, Donald D. The Pacific Basin: A History of its Geographical Explorations The American Geographical Society (New York, 1967) p. 123.
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for academic and informational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily the Wikipedia article on South Iwo Jima, and may not encompass all nuances or the most current information.
This is not professional geographical, historical, or administrative advice. The information provided should not substitute consultation with relevant experts or official documentation. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the source material, the creators of this page are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented.